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Pirates Charities, the official philanthropic arm of the Pittsburgh Pirates, announced the three grant cycle deadlines for the 2014 "Fields for Kids" matching grants program. The "Fields for Kids" program is one of Pirates Charities' signature programs and provides financial support to improve youth baseball and/or softball facilities through matching grants of $1,000 to $5,000. Each year the Pirates non-profit group distributes grants in three rounds-- spring, summer and fall.

Grant funds are used for the upgrading of essential field components such as sod, infield playing surfaces, fencing, dugouts and irrigation systems. Many organizations utilize the funds to make much needed upgrades to the overall facility, including lights, bleachers, scoreboards and concession stands.

For complete information regarding specific qualifications for grants and to submit an application, visit
pirates.com/piratescharities.

Organizations must complete an application and submit all required documents for consideration. Applications will be accepted and reviewed throughout the year. Final grant determinations will be made by Pirates Charities in April, June, and September.

In 2013, a total of 32 youth baseball and softball organizations located in western Pennsylvania and West Virginia were awarded grants to help ensure their programs continue to thrive. Since the program began in 2009, more than 150 individual grants have been distributed in Western Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Eastern Ohio and the Pirates Spring Training home of Bradenton (Manatee Co.), Florida.